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Animation, web design, and advanced knowledge of high-end design software—these are just a few skills needed to make it in today’s accelerated graphic design industry. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that “jobseekers in this field are expected to face keen competition,” so “designers with both web design and animation experience will have the best opportunities.” Fortunately, scores of art and design schools, technical schools, and many traditional colleges and universities offer advanced graphic design programs. Many are considered the best.

Mississippi is home to 40 Title IV degree-granting institutions. These schools have met five requirements established by the U.S. Department of Education. They (1) grant an associate's degree or higher, (2) offer a program of at least 300 clock hours in length, (3) have accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, (4) have been in business for at least two years, and (5) have signed a participation agreement with the Department. Once these requirements have been met, the school becomes eligible for federal financial aid programs. This makes them more accessible to students with financial need.

What does it take to become a “top” animation school? Is it location? Cost? Job placement services? The answer is all of the above. Other factors that make a difference may include number and variety of clubs and organizations, recreational opportunities, student population, and even Greek life. When it comes to assessing animation schools, a few other factors might be involved including the type of production facilities and ease of access, student-teacher ration, and internship opportunities.

Mississippi may not be the first place you think of when it comes to animation, but the state does have a lot to offer artists and designers of all kinds. First, the state is home to art museums of all sizes such as Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson (the state’s largest city), Lauren Rogers Museum of Art in Laurel, Walter Anderson Museum of Art (WAMA) in Ocean Springs, and OHR-O’Keefe Museum of Art in Biloxi. Next, Besides the Mississippi Museum of Art, Jackson is home to the Mississippi Film Office, which offers incentives for filmmakers of all kinds. The office has attracted Hollywood productions such as Act of Valor (2012), The Help (2011), Walk the Line (2005), O, Brother Where Art Thou? (2000), A Time to Kill (1996), The Insider (1995), Mississippi Burning (1988) and The Client (1994).